Science Writing at UANews Rebecca Peiffer Mentors: Robin Tricoles and La Monica Everett, UANews Arizona Space Grant Symposium Hosted by the University of Arizona April 16, 2016

UANews Governing Department: University Relations – Communications “First point of contact for news and information about the University of Arizona.” Science writing in particular shares research with the public Land Grant mission Source: uanews.arizona.edu

The Idea for a Story Where can we get ideas? Reading faculty publications Story ideas from readers Partnerships with various departments Remember: there are many possible story angles for any given story idea Source: uanews.arizona.edu

Research Stage Reach out to initial contacts Look up basic information online Attend event and take extensive notes Conduct interviews Source: uanews.arizona.edu

Interview Stage Who to interview? Main researcher UA faculty in related fields UA students Event organizers Event attendees Source: uanews.arizona.edu

Drafting Stage Organize research Transcribe interviews Add detail to event notes Decide what is most important to include Outline story Start writing! Catchy introduction  Nut graf Keep story angle in mind Find and credit good pictures Edit, edit, edit! Check for clarity Follow-up with contacts Source: uanews.arizona.edu

End Goal: Publication To date, I have published 7+ science stories through UANews Original Goal: Promote the hard work of scientists and researchers This internship has taught me science is everywhere Faculty and student research Science-based art Science festivals Additional Goals: Make research available and understandable to the public Foster a spirit of inquiry amongst all people, regardless of scientific background

Acknowledgements Mentors: Robin Tricoles & La Monica Everett UANews Staff and University Relations – Communications NASA Space Grant Mentors: Susan Brew, Chandra Holifield Collins, and Mary Jones NASA Space Grant Program …and everyone here to watch us present. Thank you all for your incredible support at every step of the way!